Marketing Blog
Reputation Won’t Save You: Why Even the Best Builders Are Falling Behind in the AI Era
The way homeowners find and hire contractors has changed — fast. AI, search, and shifting buyer behavior have rewritten the rules. If your marketing hasn’t evolved, you’re already behind. Referrals aren’t enough. Visibility, trust signals, and strategic content are now non-negotiable.
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You’ve Earned the Right to Be Selective—So Why Are the Wrong Clients Still Reaching Out?
Refining your brand helps you attract clients who respect your process and value quality work—shifting your business from chasing any lead to winning the right projects.
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Want to Grow Your Brand? It Takes More Than Just Hiring a Marketing Team
In this episode of We Love Deck Builders, host April Edwards shares why marketing isn’t a quick fix. It’s a vital part of your business that needs your involvement.
Learn how collaboration with your marketing team leads to bigger projects and better clients, and why treating marketing as a long-term strategy pays off.
Building Decks & a Brand People Trust – Featuring Tyler Anders of HomeTown Builders Unlimited
In this episode of We Love Deck Builders, host April Edwards sits down with Tyler Anders, owner of Hometown Builders Unlimited in Wisconsin. Tyler shares how he built a trusted deck-building brand, his approach to custom projects, and tips on growing a successful business while maintaining quality.
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Running a Deck Business Without the Headaches – Featuring Eric Fortenberry of JobTread
In this episode of the We Love Deck Builders Podcast, our host April Edwards sits down with Eric Fortenberry, founder and CEO of JobTread, to share game-changing insights. Learn how to overcome operational pitfalls, organize your processes, and drive profits with confidence. Whether you’re growing past the $1M mark or looking to streamline a booming business, this episode is packed with actionable tips you don’t want to miss!
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Faith in Action: Integrating Personal Beliefs into Professional Life
In this insightful episode of We Love Deck Builders, host April welcomes Pastor Joel Phillips of Escondido Christian Church to discuss the harmonious blend of personal faith and professional endeavors.
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How to Keep Your Best Leads from Slipping Away as the Season Picks Up
Too many builders assume that because they’re booked up, they’re doing everything right. They finish one job, move on to the next, and think they’re crushing it. But being busy doesn’t always mean growth. The builders who don’t just survive but grow have systems in place to stay connected with leads — even when their schedules are full. Without those systems, great opportunities can slip away unnoticed.
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IBS 2025 Recap: Lessons, Wins & Takeaways for Deck Builders
Attending IBS 2025 was an eye-opening experience—packed with industry innovations, powerful networking, and game-changing marketing insights for deck builders. From AI-driven sales strategies to the power of storytelling in outdoor living, this year’s show offered plenty of takeaways. Plus, some unexpected lessons (like why food trucks aren’t always the best idea). Don’t miss the full recap!
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Designing Majestic Outdoor Spaces with Jay Beswick
In this episode of We Love Deck Builders, host April Edwards sits down with Jay Beswick, founder of Majestic Outdoors, to discuss his journey in the deck-building industry. Jay shares insights on crafting high-end outdoor living spaces, the role of 3D renderings in project design, and his experience serving on the Belgard Advisory Council. He also talks about the latest industry trends and how Majestic Outdoors has earned five North American Deck and Railing Awards. If you’re passionate about decks, patios, and creating stunning outdoor environments, this episode is for you!
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Industry Insights with Sara Graves of Deck Specialist Magazine
On this episode of We Love Deck Builders, join host April Edwards as she chats with Sara Graves, industry expert and managing editor of Deck Specialist Magazine! Watch them answer all your burning questions about business growth, while they discuss industry trends, getting your work noticed, overcoming challenges, and the future of deck building. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, tune in to get expert insights and practical tips to elevate your business!
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Live from DeckExpo 2024: A Recap with Mike Beaudry
Join host April Edwards live from DeckExpo 2024 in Dallas as she sits down with Mike Beaudry, a key figure in the deck building industry, for an exclusive event recap. They discuss the biggest takeaways, industry trends, standout exhibitors, and what this year’s show means for the future of deck building. Whether you attended DeckExpo or missed out, this episode of We Love Deck Builders brings you the highlights and insights straight from the show floor.
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Build Your Blueprint: Why a Marketing Budget is the Key to Growing Your Deck Business in 2025
Throwing a few bucks at marketing won’t cut it—but a smart 3-5% budget can transform your business. A solid website, SEO, and targeted ads bring steady leads, while a bigger investment helps you dominate your market and land high-value projects.
Want to know where your marketing dollars should go? Read the full article to find out.
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Building Timeless Decks: O’Keefe Built’s Approach to Innovation and Quality
Join us for an insightful conversation with the team from O’Keefe Built, leaders in the deck-building industry known for their commitment to innovation, craftsmanship, and quality. In this episode, we’ll explore their journey from humble beginnings to becoming a standout in outdoor construction. Learn how they tackle challenges, create bespoke outdoor living spaces, and leverage modern marketing strategies to grow their business. Whether you’re a seasoned builder or just starting out, this episode offers practical tips on blending craftsmanship with business growth.
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Exploring DECKx Talks with Chris Breen – What’s Next for the Decking Industry
Join us on We Love Deck Builders as host April Edwards chats with Chris Breen of Legacy Decks Academy about DECKx Talks, an exciting series of presentations happening at this year’s DeckExpo in Dallas on November 12th. Chris shares the inspiration behind DECKx Talks and why this platform is designed to empower deck builders with practical insights on topics like new materials, design trends, and sustainable practices. Listen in as Chris discusses how these sessions aim to improve the skills and business acumen of deck builders of all levels. Whether you’re attending DeckExpo or just want to stay up-to-date on the latest in the industry, this episode is packed with valuable insights for everyone.
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Deck Power Panel: Marketing to the Max: Craft Creative Marketing Campaigns
Want to take your deck-building business to the next level with proven marketing strategies? In this dynamic panel, marketing expert and Deck Specialist columnist April Edwards moderates a discussion with three of the nation’s top deck builders—Mike Mitchell, Andy Henley, and Levi Tippetts—to explore how creative and cost-effective marketing can drive real results.
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Deck Power Panel: Deck Expo Elevate your Deck Business to the Next Level
Are you ready to take your deck-building business to the next level? Join April Edwards, founder of Deck Builder Marketers, as she moderates a powerhouse panel of industry leaders sharing actionable insights to grow your business, boost profits, and build a standout brand.
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Decked Out Marketing: Elevate Your Business
If you’re ready to take your deck-building business to the next level, this is the panel you don’t want to miss. Industry experts share powerful strategies to help you stand out, attract the right customers, and grow your business through smart, effective marketing.
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Deck Business Growth Playbook: Advanced Marketing Strategies for the Digital Age
Want to grow your deck-building business significantly this year? In this session, April Edwards, founder of Deck Builder Marketers, shares advanced digital marketing strategies to transform your business and generate more leads
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Women in the Industry: Leading the Way in Deck Building
This inspiring panel highlights the remarkable contributions of women in the deck-building and outdoor living industry. Moderated by April Edwards, founder of Deck Builder Marketers, the discussion features insights, advice, and strategies from seven trailblazing women who are making a significant impact in their fields.
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Mastering Customer-Centered Deck Building with John Lea of DeckSouth
In this episode of We Love Deck Builders, host April Edwards sits down with John Lea, founder and president of DeckSouth, a leader in outdoor living design with over 25 years of experience and more than 2,000 completed projects. John shares his journey in building DeckSouth, the importance of a customer-focused approach, and how to leverage design, awards, and marketing strategies to stand out in the competitive decking industry. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started, John’s insights offer valuable takeaways to help you grow your business and build lasting client relationships.
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